EP2106221A2 - Protective and therapeutic body gear - Google Patents

Protective and therapeutic body gear

Info

Publication number
EP2106221A2
EP2106221A2 EP07797990A EP07797990A EP2106221A2 EP 2106221 A2 EP2106221 A2 EP 2106221A2 EP 07797990 A EP07797990 A EP 07797990A EP 07797990 A EP07797990 A EP 07797990A EP 2106221 A2 EP2106221 A2 EP 2106221A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
article
impact protection
gutter
layer
protective article
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP07797990A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2106221A4 (en
EP2106221B1 (en
Inventor
Robert M. Gorsen
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of EP2106221A2 publication Critical patent/EP2106221A2/en
Publication of EP2106221A4 publication Critical patent/EP2106221A4/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2106221B1 publication Critical patent/EP2106221B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D20/00—Wristbands or headbands, e.g. for absorbing sweat
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D31/00—Materials specially adapted for outerwear
    • A41D31/04—Materials specially adapted for outerwear characterised by special function or use
    • A41D31/12—Hygroscopic; Water retaining
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
    • A41D31/00—Materials specially adapted for outerwear
    • A41D31/04—Materials specially adapted for outerwear characterised by special function or use
    • A41D31/28—Shock absorbing
    • A41D31/285—Shock absorbing using layered materials
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
    • A61F13/00—Bandages or dressings; Absorbent pads
    • A61F13/15—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators
    • A61F13/45—Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T442/00—Fabric [woven, knitted, or nonwoven textile or cloth, etc.]
    • Y10T442/30—Woven fabric [i.e., woven strand or strip material]
    • Y10T442/3325—Including a foamed layer or component
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T442/00—Fabric [woven, knitted, or nonwoven textile or cloth, etc.]
    • Y10T442/30—Woven fabric [i.e., woven strand or strip material]
    • Y10T442/3325—Including a foamed layer or component
    • Y10T442/335—Plural fabric layers

Definitions

  • This invention relates to protective body gear that is formed from impact protection and moisture absorption materials.
  • Impact protection devices are needed to safeguard individuals such as sports participants, military personnel and others engaging in high risk activities.
  • openings have been required in impact protective material for it to be breathable. Even with openings present the remainder of the material can create a hot, moist interface with the wearer. The presence of such openings can also compromise the level of protection such materials can offer.
  • Moisture absorbent material has been used in combination with impact absorbing material to reduce the moisture problem. This has only been successful to a limited extent, in part because the moisture absorbing material becomes saturated and the moisture remains in contact with the wearer. Accordingly, there is a need for a protective device that performs moisture control and impact protection functions.
  • Embodiments of the present invention provide a protective device that is effective in removing moisture that arises from impact absorbing material used therein.
  • the device has a layer of absorbent material disposed adjacent to an impact protection material.
  • a layer of moisture transport material is disposed adjacent to the impact protection material and on the side of the impact protection material opposite the absorbent material.
  • a gutter is formed of the impact material to facilitate moisture transport and removal from the wearer.
  • Embodiments of the present invention provide moisture-absorbing and impact-protective material comprising a layer of impact protection material, a layer of absorbent material disposed adjacent to the impact protection material; and a layer moisture transport material disposed adjacent to the impact protection material and on the side of the impact protection material opposite the absorbent material.
  • the layers are fastened to one another.
  • at least the impact material is folded so as to for a gutter between the layers of the absorbent material.
  • the combination of materials may be used to make a variety of items, including headbands, wristbands, neckbands, armbands, and guards for the knees, shins and elbows.
  • the material inventive arrangement is formed into eye shields, head bands or a cap which accommodate a cold pack, hot pack, vibration devices or other therapeutic device.
  • Figure 1 depicts an exploded view of a novel combination of materials according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 2 depicts an exploded view of a protective garment according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 3 depicts an exploded view of a protective garment according to a further illustrative embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 4 depicts an exploded view of a protective garment according to yet a further illustrative embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 5 depicts an exploded view of a protective garment according to another illustrative embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 1 depicts an exploded view of a novel combination of materials for use in a protective garment according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.
  • An impact protection material 102 is dispose between a layer of absorbent material 104 and moisture transport material 106.
  • the layers may be stitched to one another or fastened by other means. It is also possible for one or more of the layers to be bonded to one another.
  • FIG. 2 depicts an exploded view of the protective article of FIG. 1 in a folded configuration. This is the preferred configuration for use of the article.
  • Impact protection material 102 forms a u or v-shape within absorbent material 104, preferably disposed on the inside of the fold and moisture transport material 106 preferably disposed on the outside.
  • FIG. 2 shows moisture transport material 106 fully surrounding impact protection material 102, however, it is within the spirit and scope of the invention to extend around impact protection material 102 to a lesser extent. It is preferable to have moisture transport material protect the wearer from direct contact with certain types of impact protection material 102.
  • the exterior face of the layered material can be any desired material, including but not limited to the moisture transport material 106 as shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 3 depicts an exploded view of a further illustrative embodiment of the invention.
  • the impact material 302 forms a gutter 316.
  • Absorbent material 304 is disposed within impact material gutter 316, forming a u or v- shape therein.
  • Absorbent material 304 extends out of the gutter and between impact protection material 302 and moisture transport material 306.
  • the interface 318 of absorbent material 304 and moisture transport material 306 can extend be any amount that allows the transfer of moisture to absorbent material 304.
  • FIG. 4 depicts an exploded view of yet another illustrative embodiment of the invention.
  • absorbent material 404 extends into impact protection material 402, but is not folded to follow the contour of gutter 416.
  • Absorbent layer 404 can extend to any length within gutter 416, provided that it can carry moisture toward the gutter, and as discussed above, to various lengths between moisture transport material 406 and impact protection material 402.
  • FIG. 5 depicts an exploded view of another illustrative embodiment of the invention.
  • absorbent material 504 extends within impact material 502 to allow moisture to collect in gutter 516 if necessary.
  • Absorbent material 504 overlaps moisture transport material 506 on its outside face or edge. This overlap or interface can extend any amount over moisture transport material 506, but is likely effective enough extending only a minimum amount over the edge.
  • the novel system provides impact protection and moisture control in a single product.
  • Traditional technology requires an impact protective material to have some form of openings to render the material breathable. This can compromise the protective benefits of the material and add additional manufacturing expense.
  • the novel system combines an impact protective material with a moisture absorbent layer and a moisture transport material to direct moisture away from the skin.
  • the impact protection material may or may have openings.
  • the moisture transport material creates a capillary action that transports moisture toward the absorbent material. If the absorbent material becomes saturated, the gutter formed by the u or v-shaped impact protection material acts as a reservoir to inhibit moisture dripping onto the wearer.
  • An article made of the layered material and folded as shown in FIG. 2 is positioned on the user so the fold is at the lowest position of the article.
  • a wrist band is worn with the gutter toward the hand and a headband is worn with the gutter toward the brow.
  • the absorbent material need not be a folded length of material. The same or similar effect can be achieved if it is a single layer in the interior of a folded length of the material combination. Furthermore, it need not extend completely to the bottom of the gutter, but can extend to any length therein.
  • a component to maintain the article in a folded position is included.
  • a hook material piece 112 is placed at a first position on the article and a loop material piece 114 is placed at a second position, so the article can be folded to create the gutter and maintained in the folded position.
  • Other folding components may be used such as snaps and buttons.
  • the order of materials can be varied, however, it has been determined that having the moisture transport material against the user is most effective for moisture control. It is also possible to have either the impact protection layer as single, rather than a folded layer, but the gutter effect would be sacrificed.
  • the impact protection material may be for example, an open cell foam such as polyethylene bubble foam.
  • Other synthetic materials may also be used, such as neoprene.
  • Natural rubber materials are another option for the impact protection layer.
  • the absorbent material layer is preferably a terry cloth or similar material. Cotton or cotton-containing materials in general are an excellent choice for the absorbent layer.
  • the absorbent layer may also exhibit a capillary effect along the material, rather than through it. This can facilitate the transfer of moisture into the gutter.
  • the moisture transport layer can be any material in which a capillary effect can be created through the material.
  • Wicking materials such as those made by Under Armor®, Adidas®, Nike® and Gortex® are suitable in addition to other types/brands.
  • Gortex® for example has a porous fluoropolymer membrane with a urethane coating bonded to a fabric such as nylon or polyester. The membrane has approximately nine billion pores per square inch, making them permeable to water vapor but not liquid water.
  • a material that blocks liquid water but lets water vapor pass through is suitable for the moisture transport layer. This allows moisture generated by the wearer to pass through to the absorbent layer, but will not let liquid water vapor pass back to the wearer when the absorbent material becomes saturated.
  • Wicking materials can enhance the moisture control of the article by wicking moisture away from the user while drawing moisture toward the absorbent layer through the capillary effect.
  • the construction of the layered material can affect the moisture control ability of the article.
  • the moisture transported by the moisture transport material must reach the absorbent material for the article to be effective. Accordingly, an interface should exist between the two materials.
  • the interface can be to any extent and need not be face to face. Therefore, overlap of one material on another and the type of seam used can have a bearing on the effectiveness of the article.
  • the moisture transport material can overlap the absorbent material, such that the moisture transport material folds over the edge of the absorbent material, thereby facilitating the absorbent material's absorption of moisture wicked away from the wearer by the moisture transport layer.
  • the materials may be permanently attached to one another or separable to facilitate cleaning and/or allow interchangeability of components.
  • FIG. 2 shows a securing or fastening mechanism to secure the article to a wearer as pieces of material 108, 110 extending from moisture transport material 106.
  • Material 108, 110 may be or have attached to it a hook and loop material such as Velcro®.
  • a section of hook material may be attached to one end of the protective garment and a section of a loop material may be attached to opposite end such that joining of at least a portion of the sections of hook and loop materials secures the protective garment to the body area.
  • the securing mechanism may also be an elastic material attached to the garment such that the garment forms a stretchable loop that can be disposed around a body section.
  • the securing mechanism may take on many forms and may be attached to the layered material in many ways and at different points. Both adjustable and fixed size securing mechanism can be incorporated into the article. The mechanism may extend from the ends of the layered material component or be incorporated into the ends.
  • Other fastening mechanisms include for example snaps and lengths of material that can be tied.
  • the protective system may be used to form many different articles. Examples of use include, a headband, neckband, wristband, armband, knee or ankle support, and shin guard.
  • the layered material can also be used for therapeutic purposes.
  • migraine sufferers may use the system in the form of a headband or cap that can hold cold packs to their head. Eye shields can be incorporated into the article to help with light sensitivity.
  • the layered material may also be used to hold other therapeutic devices to a user such as hot packs and vibration devices.
  • a band soaked in cold water could be a cooling device.
  • an article comprising the layered material has an attachment component to attach a therapeutic device. This may be for example, a pocket or a fastening device.

Abstract

A moisture absorbing and impact protective material comprising a layer of impact protection material (102) forming a gutter (116), a layer of absorbent material (104) disposed adjacent to the impact protection material (102) at least in part within the gutter (116), and a layer of moisture transport material (106) disposed at least in part external to the impact protection material gutter (116) and having an interface with the absorbent material (104). The moisture transport material (106) wicks away moisture from a wearer and transports it to the absorbent material (104). Excess moisture accumulates in the gutter (116).

Description

PROTECTIVE AND THERAPEUTIC BODY GEAR
PRIORITY CLAIM
The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 60/810,267, entitled "Protective and Therapeutic Body Gear", filed June 2, 2006. The provisional application is hereby incorporated in its entirety.
FIELD OF INVENTION
This invention relates to protective body gear that is formed from impact protection and moisture absorption materials.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Impact protection devices are needed to safeguard individuals such as sports participants, military personnel and others engaging in high risk activities. Traditionally, openings have been required in impact protective material for it to be breathable. Even with openings present the remainder of the material can create a hot, moist interface with the wearer. The presence of such openings can also compromise the level of protection such materials can offer. Moisture absorbent material has been used in combination with impact absorbing material to reduce the moisture problem. This has only been successful to a limited extent, in part because the moisture absorbing material becomes saturated and the moisture remains in contact with the wearer. Accordingly, there is a need for a protective device that performs moisture control and impact protection functions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention provide a protective device that is effective in removing moisture that arises from impact absorbing material used therein. The device has a layer of absorbent material disposed adjacent to an impact protection material. A layer of moisture transport material is disposed adjacent to the impact protection material and on the side of the impact protection material opposite the absorbent material. A gutter is formed of the impact material to facilitate moisture transport and removal from the wearer.
Embodiments of the present invention provide moisture-absorbing and impact-protective material comprising a layer of impact protection material, a layer of absorbent material disposed adjacent to the impact protection material; and a layer moisture transport material disposed adjacent to the impact protection material and on the side of the impact protection material opposite the absorbent material. In one embodiment, the layers are fastened to one another. In a preferred embodiment, at least the impact material is folded so as to for a gutter between the layers of the absorbent material.
The combination of materials may be used to make a variety of items, including headbands, wristbands, neckbands, armbands, and guards for the knees, shins and elbows. In further embodiment of the invention, the material inventive arrangement is formed into eye shields, head bands or a cap which accommodate a cold pack, hot pack, vibration devices or other therapeutic device.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention is best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying drawings.
Figure 1 depicts an exploded view of a novel combination of materials according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.
Figure 2 depicts an exploded view of a protective garment according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention.
Figure 3 depicts an exploded view of a protective garment according to a further illustrative embodiment of the invention. Figure 4 depicts an exploded view of a protective garment according to yet a further illustrative embodiment of the invention.
Figure 5 depicts an exploded view of a protective garment according to another illustrative embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 depicts an exploded view of a novel combination of materials for use in a protective garment according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. An impact protection material 102 is dispose between a layer of absorbent material 104 and moisture transport material 106. The layers may be stitched to one another or fastened by other means. It is also possible for one or more of the layers to be bonded to one another.
FIG. 2 depicts an exploded view of the protective article of FIG. 1 in a folded configuration. This is the preferred configuration for use of the article. Impact protection material 102 forms a u or v-shape within absorbent material 104, preferably disposed on the inside of the fold and moisture transport material 106 preferably disposed on the outside. FIG. 2 shows moisture transport material 106 fully surrounding impact protection material 102, however, it is within the spirit and scope of the invention to extend around impact protection material 102 to a lesser extent. It is preferable to have moisture transport material protect the wearer from direct contact with certain types of impact protection material 102. The exterior face of the layered material can be any desired material, including but not limited to the moisture transport material 106 as shown in FIG. 2.
Impact protection material 102 forms a gutter 116 to retain liquid absorbed and transported by absorbent material 104 and moisture transport material 106. A mechanism 108, 110 for the protective garment to be secured to a user is also provided. It is noted that the article can be folded in the reverse direction and still exhibit some or all of the benefits as when folded with the absorbent material in the interior of the fold. These benefits will be described in more detail below. FIG. 3 depicts an exploded view of a further illustrative embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment the impact material 302 forms a gutter 316. Absorbent material 304 is disposed within impact material gutter 316, forming a u or v- shape therein. Absorbent material 304 extends out of the gutter and between impact protection material 302 and moisture transport material 306. The interface 318 of absorbent material 304 and moisture transport material 306 can extend be any amount that allows the transfer of moisture to absorbent material 304.
FIG. 4 depicts an exploded view of yet another illustrative embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, absorbent material 404 extends into impact protection material 402, but is not folded to follow the contour of gutter 416. Absorbent layer 404 can extend to any length within gutter 416, provided that it can carry moisture toward the gutter, and as discussed above, to various lengths between moisture transport material 406 and impact protection material 402.
FIG. 5 depicts an exploded view of another illustrative embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment absorbent material 504 extends within impact material 502 to allow moisture to collect in gutter 516 if necessary. Absorbent material 504 overlaps moisture transport material 506 on its outside face or edge. This overlap or interface can extend any amount over moisture transport material 506, but is likely effective enough extending only a minimum amount over the edge.
It is noted that combinations of features shown in, and described with respect to FIGS. 1-5 are within the spirit and scope of the invention.
The novel system provides impact protection and moisture control in a single product. Traditional technology requires an impact protective material to have some form of openings to render the material breathable. This can compromise the protective benefits of the material and add additional manufacturing expense. The novel system combines an impact protective material with a moisture absorbent layer and a moisture transport material to direct moisture away from the skin. The impact protection material may or may have openings. The moisture transport material creates a capillary action that transports moisture toward the absorbent material. If the absorbent material becomes saturated, the gutter formed by the u or v-shaped impact protection material acts as a reservoir to inhibit moisture dripping onto the wearer. An article made of the layered material and folded as shown in FIG. 2 is positioned on the user so the fold is at the lowest position of the article. For example, a wrist band is worn with the gutter toward the hand and a headband is worn with the gutter toward the brow. It is noted that the absorbent material need not be a folded length of material. The same or similar effect can be achieved if it is a single layer in the interior of a folded length of the material combination. Furthermore, it need not extend completely to the bottom of the gutter, but can extend to any length therein.
In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, a component to maintain the article in a folded position is included. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, a hook material piece 112 is placed at a first position on the article and a loop material piece 114 is placed at a second position, so the article can be folded to create the gutter and maintained in the folded position. Other folding components may be used such as snaps and buttons.
The order of materials can be varied, however, it has been determined that having the moisture transport material against the user is most effective for moisture control. It is also possible to have either the impact protection layer as single, rather than a folded layer, but the gutter effect would be sacrificed.
Various materials can be used to provide the desired characteristics of each layer of the protective article. The impact protection material may be for example, an open cell foam such as polyethylene bubble foam. Other synthetic materials may also be used, such as neoprene. Natural rubber materials are another option for the impact protection layer.
The absorbent material layer is preferably a terry cloth or similar material. Cotton or cotton-containing materials in general are an excellent choice for the absorbent layer. The absorbent layer may also exhibit a capillary effect along the material, rather than through it. This can facilitate the transfer of moisture into the gutter.
The moisture transport layer can be any material in which a capillary effect can be created through the material. Wicking materials such as those made by Under Armor®, Adidas®, Nike® and Gortex® are suitable in addition to other types/brands. Gortex®, for example has a porous fluoropolymer membrane with a urethane coating bonded to a fabric such as nylon or polyester. The membrane has approximately nine billion pores per square inch, making them permeable to water vapor but not liquid water. Generally, a material that blocks liquid water but lets water vapor pass through is suitable for the moisture transport layer. This allows moisture generated by the wearer to pass through to the absorbent layer, but will not let liquid water vapor pass back to the wearer when the absorbent material becomes saturated. Wicking materials can enhance the moisture control of the article by wicking moisture away from the user while drawing moisture toward the absorbent layer through the capillary effect.
The construction of the layered material can affect the moisture control ability of the article. The moisture transported by the moisture transport material must reach the absorbent material for the article to be effective. Accordingly, an interface should exist between the two materials. The interface can be to any extent and need not be face to face. Therefore, overlap of one material on another and the type of seam used can have a bearing on the effectiveness of the article. The moisture transport material can overlap the absorbent material, such that the moisture transport material folds over the edge of the absorbent material, thereby facilitating the absorbent material's absorption of moisture wicked away from the wearer by the moisture transport layer.. The materials may be permanently attached to one another or separable to facilitate cleaning and/or allow interchangeability of components.
FIG. 2 shows a securing or fastening mechanism to secure the article to a wearer as pieces of material 108, 110 extending from moisture transport material 106. Material 108, 110 may be or have attached to it a hook and loop material such as Velcro®. A section of hook material may be attached to one end of the protective garment and a section of a loop material may be attached to opposite end such that joining of at least a portion of the sections of hook and loop materials secures the protective garment to the body area. The securing mechanism may also be an elastic material attached to the garment such that the garment forms a stretchable loop that can be disposed around a body section. The securing mechanism may take on many forms and may be attached to the layered material in many ways and at different points. Both adjustable and fixed size securing mechanism can be incorporated into the article. The mechanism may extend from the ends of the layered material component or be incorporated into the ends. Other fastening mechanisms include for example snaps and lengths of material that can be tied.
The protective system may be used to form many different articles. Examples of use include, a headband, neckband, wristband, armband, knee or ankle support, and shin guard.
The layered material can also be used for therapeutic purposes. For example, migraine sufferers may use the system in the form of a headband or cap that can hold cold packs to their head. Eye shields can be incorporated into the article to help with light sensitivity. The layered material may also be used to hold other therapeutic devices to a user such as hot packs and vibration devices. A band soaked in cold water could be a cooling device. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, an article comprising the layered material has an attachment component to attach a therapeutic device. This may be for example, a pocket or a fastening device.
While the invention has been described by illustrative embodiments, additional advantages and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to specific details shown and described herein. Modifications, for example, types of material and configurations of articles made with material may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the specific illustrative embodiments, but be interpreted within the full spirit and scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

Docket No.: 3008664-0003-PCTClaimed is:
1. A protective article comprising: a layer of impact protection material forming a gutter; a layer of absorbent material disposed adjacent to the impact protection material at least in part within the gutter; and a layer of moisture transport material disposed at least in part external to the impact protection material gutter and having an interface with the absorbent material.
2. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the impact protection material is an open cell foam.
3. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the absorbent material contains cotton.
4. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the moisture transport material is a wicking material.
5. The protective article of claim 1 further comprising a securing mechanism.
6. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the article is a headband.
7. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the article is a wristband.
8. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the article is a neckband.
9. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the article is an armband.
10. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the article is a shin guard.
11. The protective article of claim 1 further comprising an eye shield.
12. The protective article of claim 1 further comprising a therapeutic device incorporation mechanism.
13. The protective article of claim 1 further comprising a folding component to maintain the article in a position in which the gutter is formed.
14. The protective article of claim 1 further comprising material attached to the article to form a complete cap.
15. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the moisture transport material is disposed on the external part of the gutter facing a wearer.
16. The protective article of claim 15 wherein the moisture transport material is further disposed on the external part of the gutter facing away from the wearer.
17. The protective article of claim 1 wherein the absorbent material is further disposed external to the gutter.
18. The protective article of claim 17 wherein the absorbent material is disposed between the impact protection material and the moisture transport material.
19. A method of manufacturing a protective article comprising: providing a layer of impact protection material; providing a layer of absorbent material disposed adjacent to the impact protection material; providing a layer of moisture transport material disposed adjacent to the impact protection material and on the side of the impact protection material opposite the absorbent material; fastening the moisture transport material, absorbent material and moisture transport material together; and forming a gutter from the impact material.
20. A method of protecting a body section comprising: providing a layer of impact protection material; providing a layer of absorbent material disposed adjacent to the impact protection material; providing a layer of moisture transport material disposed adjacent to the impact protection material and on the side of the impact protection material opposite the absorbent material; providing a gutter formed of the impact material; securing the combination of the moisture transport material, absorbent material and moisture transport material to a body section.
EP20070797990 2006-06-02 2007-06-01 Protective article Not-in-force EP2106221B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US81026706P 2006-06-02 2006-06-02
PCT/US2007/070186 WO2007143529A2 (en) 2006-06-02 2007-06-01 Protective and therapeutic body gear

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2106221A2 true EP2106221A2 (en) 2009-10-07
EP2106221A4 EP2106221A4 (en) 2011-06-08
EP2106221B1 EP2106221B1 (en) 2012-08-22

Family

ID=38802238

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20070797990 Not-in-force EP2106221B1 (en) 2006-06-02 2007-06-01 Protective article

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US7493663B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2106221B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2007143529A2 (en)

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20120174293A1 (en) * 2007-04-27 2012-07-12 Intellectual Property Holdings, LLC. Helmet moisture removal system
RU2533683C2 (en) 2012-09-21 2014-11-20 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "НаноПульс" (ООО "НаноПульс") Device for remote non-contact monitoring of parameters of living body vital activity
US20160366960A1 (en) * 2015-06-18 2016-12-22 Headwick LLC Moisture-diverting band device, and associated methods

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2320782A (en) * 1942-05-28 1943-06-01 Thomas H Larsen Forehead perspiration diverter
US4193134A (en) * 1977-03-04 1980-03-18 Bristol-Myers Company Protective device with integrally molded pad
US5168576A (en) * 1990-10-03 1992-12-08 Krent Edward D Body protective device
US5566395A (en) * 1994-07-20 1996-10-22 Nebeker; Leonard R. Liner for hat
FR2848071A1 (en) * 2002-12-06 2004-06-11 Lee Sara Corp Knitted sock or stocking has areas of padding made from foam-filled textiles incorporated in sole

Family Cites Families (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2218947A (en) * 1939-01-19 1940-10-22 Brunzell Victor Safety cap for ball players
US2996724A (en) * 1959-05-29 1961-08-22 Louis E Rose Cushioned head scarf
US3929135A (en) * 1974-12-20 1975-12-30 Procter & Gamble Absorptive structure having tapered capillaries
US4581773A (en) * 1984-02-02 1986-04-15 Plum Enterprises, Inc. Protective hat
US4996724A (en) * 1989-10-20 1991-03-05 Innova-Dex Sports, Inc. Protective rim configuration for hard-shelled safety helmet
US5289591A (en) * 1991-10-25 1994-03-01 Andersen Kelvin D Hard ball golf hat
US5226180A (en) * 1991-12-02 1993-07-13 Leach Robert E Protective cap for golfers
US5461730A (en) * 1993-08-06 1995-10-31 Plum Enterprises, Inc. Protective hat
US5365607A (en) * 1993-08-26 1994-11-22 Benevento Jr Vincenzo P Cap having evaporative cooling interior apparatus
US5481759A (en) * 1993-12-03 1996-01-09 Rinaldi; Robert Expandable baseball hat and cover
US20050214501A1 (en) * 1996-11-12 2005-09-29 Waterproof/breathable technical apparel
US6125645A (en) * 1997-06-12 2000-10-03 Horn; Stephen T. Moisture removal phase shift personal cooling Garment
US6009555A (en) * 1997-06-25 2000-01-04 Siprut; Leonard Albert Multiple component headgear system
US5926849A (en) * 1998-03-31 1999-07-27 Boyle; Kevin J. Baseball cap with a channeled, laminated inside head band
US6563013B1 (en) * 1998-11-30 2003-05-13 The Procter & Gamble Company Absorbent article having channel
US6162960A (en) * 1999-01-25 2000-12-19 Klein; Jeffrey A. Compression sponge for wound care
US6966071B1 (en) * 2002-09-19 2005-11-22 Craig Cascone Adjustable and reversible baseball cap
US7985210B2 (en) * 2004-02-09 2011-07-26 The Procter & Gamble Company Absorbent article comprising a flap handle that aids in the application of said absorbent article
US7608070B2 (en) * 2004-09-30 2009-10-27 Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. Foam-based fasteners

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2320782A (en) * 1942-05-28 1943-06-01 Thomas H Larsen Forehead perspiration diverter
US4193134A (en) * 1977-03-04 1980-03-18 Bristol-Myers Company Protective device with integrally molded pad
US5168576A (en) * 1990-10-03 1992-12-08 Krent Edward D Body protective device
US5566395A (en) * 1994-07-20 1996-10-22 Nebeker; Leonard R. Liner for hat
FR2848071A1 (en) * 2002-12-06 2004-06-11 Lee Sara Corp Knitted sock or stocking has areas of padding made from foam-filled textiles incorporated in sole

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of WO2007143529A2 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20070281568A1 (en) 2007-12-06
EP2106221A4 (en) 2011-06-08
US7493663B2 (en) 2009-02-24
EP2106221B1 (en) 2012-08-22
WO2007143529A2 (en) 2007-12-13
WO2007143529A3 (en) 2008-07-31

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US10092044B2 (en) Protective garment with separate inner and outer shells
US5450625A (en) Elbow and knee guards with removable shell protectors
US5150475A (en) Protective wristband
US6205590B1 (en) Headband
US9392827B2 (en) Headband apparatus for wicking and directing perspiration
EP1175840A2 (en) A shock absorbing device
KR102283989B1 (en) Protective garment having an improved hood
EP3229625B1 (en) Cooling assembly
US20130221046A1 (en) Storage device for mouth guard
US20160255897A1 (en) Device for absorbing and retaining sweat
ES2661018T3 (en) Multi-component garment
WO2007011546A2 (en) Protective athletic band
JP2022525378A (en) Protective headband
US20080000002A1 (en) Garment for protecting a part of an extremity
US7493663B2 (en) Protective and therapeutic body gear
US20060010568A1 (en) Helmet sweat band
JP2004277967A (en) Protector
US20070150994A1 (en) Knee protection system
WO2017200973A1 (en) Device for absorbing and retaining sweat
TW202116197A (en) Impact absorbing pad for garment, and garment including same
JP4562121B2 (en) belt
KR101230446B1 (en) Built-in liner cap with attachment for helmet
CN205567894U (en) New material motion protective equipment
JP2009091705A (en) Knee pad
CN215381621U (en) High-elasticity breathable wrist guard material

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20090422

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

A4 Supplementary search report drawn up and despatched

Effective date: 20110506

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R079

Ref document number: 602007024970

Country of ref document: DE

Free format text: PREVIOUS MAIN CLASS: A41D0027000000

Ipc: A61F0013450000

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Ipc: A41D 20/00 20060101ALI20111118BHEP

Ipc: A41D 31/00 20060101ALI20111118BHEP

Ipc: A61F 13/45 20060101AFI20111118BHEP

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20111212

RTI1 Title (correction)

Free format text: PROTECTIVE ARTICLE

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 571528

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20120915

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 602007024970

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20121018

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: VDEP

Effective date: 20120822

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MK05

Ref document number: 571528

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20120822

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

Effective date: 20120822

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20121222

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20121123

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20121224

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20121203

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20130523

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20121122

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602007024970

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20130523

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: MM4A

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130630

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130601

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20120822

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130601

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20070601

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 10

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20160627

Year of fee payment: 10

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20160628

Year of fee payment: 10

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20160628

Year of fee payment: 10

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 602007024970

Country of ref document: DE

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20170601

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20180228

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20180103

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170601

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20170630